Straight-set wins send Finland and Czechia to men’s Golden League final
Recap
On Saturday, the finalists for the Men’s CEV European Golden League 2025 were confirmed as Czechia and Finland, both claimed straight-set victories in their respective semi-final matches. Czechia defeated Israel 3–0 (25–14, 26–24, 25–23) at the Brno Exhibition Centre, showing consistency across all three sets. Meanwhile, Finland overcame Greece 3–0 (19–25, 23–25, 20–25) in a 91-minute contest, delivering an efficient performance to book their place in the final.
Finland Outclass Greece to Reach Men’s Golden League 2025 Final
Greece started the match with intensity but struggled to maintain momentum. Finland took the first set 25–19, building an early lead and maintaining control throughout. In the second set, head coach Dante Boninfante made a tactical substitution, bringing on Raptis for Andreopoulos. The change helped Greece close a three-point gap to level the score at 18–18, but Finland regained control and edged the set 25–23.
Throughout the match, Finland stayed composed, finishing the job in the third set and sealing a 3–0 win. Their attack and block efficiency gave them the edge in key moments, especially late in each set.
Joonas Jokela led Finland with a strong all-around performance, earning MVP honours with 23 points, 1 ace, and 3 kill blocks. His contribution was central to Finland’s victory.
Czechia Defeats Israel in Straight Sets to Reach the Final
Czechia started the match brilliantly, dominating the opening set with control to win it 25-14.
In the second set, Israel responded with much more focus. They improved their blocking and defense, staying neck and neck with Czechia throughout. The set saw several long rallies and momentum shifts, with both teams creating chances to pull ahead. But when it mattered most, Czechia calmed the pressure and edged out a tight finish, taking the set 26-24 to extend their lead.
The third set was the most competitive. Israel came from behind and narrowed the gap after being 17-23 down, bringing the score to 23-24. However, Czechia stayed composed and closed the set 25-23 to seal the match.
Lukáš Vašina was the top scorer for the match, finishing with 17 points, 3 kill blocks, and 1 ace, earning him the MVP title. Israel fought hard but couldn’t find the breakthrough they needed to extend the match.
With both teams heading into the final unbeaten, it sets up a balanced and competitive clash. All eyes now turn to the title match, where either Finland or Czechia will be crowned champions of the 2025 Men’s CEV European Golden League.